RUMFORD — Members of local Elks Lodge No. 862 held a brainstorming meeting Tuesday night to find ways to keep the lodge operating, but leaders are waiting to release the results.
Ann White, chairwoman of the fraternal organization’s Board of Trustees, said Wednesday afternoon that a group of members plan to get together within the next few days to prepare a news release.
“We want to get the message out there,” White said.
Current exalted ruler of the lodge, Sandee Welch, echoed White’s statement.
The lodge, located at River and Exchange streets in downtown Rumford, called a special meeting of all members Tuesday night, with the goal of coming up with ideas to keep the lodge operating. Finances have dwindled in recent years because of money spent to bring the brick building up to code, and because of a decrease in membership.
Although the lodge has 320 members on its list, few take part in the many activities aimed at helping youth, senior citizens and veterans, some said.
According to the national website for the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, the mission is to serve the community through benevolent, charitable and patriotic programs.
Among the programs sponsored or supported by the local lodge are annual hoop shoots for youths ages 8 to 13, with this year’s event set to take place Saturday at the Mexico Recreation Center, Mother’s Day services, Father’s Day breakfasts, and Flag Day ceremonies.
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